Wilfred Williams (December 28, 1910 – October 12, 1972) was an American singer. He had a successful cover recording of Fats Waller's "I'm Gonna Sit Right Down And Write Myself A Letter" in 1957. The record sold over one million copies, and was awarded a gold disc.

Early years

A Methodist minister's son, Williams was born in Waco, Texas. His early youth was spent in Texas before the family moved to Ohio. Growing up, he sang in choirs at churches where his father was the pastor, with his mother often the choir director. He was frequently a soloist, and he also learned to help her arrange music.

Military service

Williams served in the Army during World War II; he received a medical discharge in 1944.

Career

While a student at Wilberforce University, Williams became the lead singer of the Charioteers; he sang with the group from 1930 to 1950, when he formed his own Billy Williams Quartet with Eugene Dixon, Claude Riddick and John Ball. Many radio and television appearances followed: as regular guests and chorus on the Bing Crosby radio show from 1942 to 1946 and Your Show of Shows with Sid Caesar. Williams also headed the Billy Williams Revue, "a complete show package of dancers, singers, musicians and comedians". The troupe performed in Canada, the Caribbean, and across the United States.

Later years

By the early 1960s Williams struggled to retain his voice due to complications of diabetes. In the years before his death, Williams worked in New York City with a program to help homeless men.

Personal life

Williams was married to Lois Traverse, and they had two children. In 1957, Traverse had charges of desertion and non-support against him dismissed after the two reached a financial support agreement. The case was heard in Bergen County, New Jersey.

Death

On October 12, 1972, Williams died in Chicago, Illinois, after having a heart attack. He was 61 years old.

Discography

Charted singles